Update 22 Aug 2023: AWARE voices concerns over Tan Kin Lian's presidential bid, points to his 'history of objectifying women'
A video compiling several posts from the presidential hopeful about seeing "pretty" girls on buses and in malls is making the rounds on TikTok
The Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE) voiced concerns over Mr Tan Kin Lian's participation in the upcoming Presidential Election, given his "history of objectifying women". The women's rights group released a statement on Monday (Aug 21) saying that the assessment process for presidential candidates should not only take into account financial and management qualifications, but also "wider societal impacts".
AWARE's statement was published on Facebook after a CNA report on Mr Tan's response to a viral TikTok video, which showed posts by the former NTUC Income chief executive about "pretty" girls. Mr Tan said a "small minority" of people are uncomfortable with his social media posts that talk about "pretty" girls, and that most people find it "quite fun". Checks by CNA confirmed that the posts in the video were legitimate.
The video has racked up more than 250,000 views and over 8,000 likes. One TikTok user commented: "He does this all the time. (I don't know) why (Elections Department) can pass him haha." CNA has contacted the Elections Department for comment. Mr Tan was one of three candidates who received a certificate of eligibility on Friday for the Presidential Election. He is due to submit his nomination papers on Tuesday.
Presidential Elections Committee 'not aware' of Tan Kin Lian's social media posts before issuing eligibility certificate
The PEC says it is "not legally entitled to revisit its earlier decision" after a certificate of eligibility was issued to presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian
The Presidential Elections Committee (PEC) was not aware of Mr Tan Kin Lian's social media posts before a certificate of eligibility was issued to him, and it is "not legally entitled to revisit its earlier decision". The committee also said on Monday night (Aug 21) that the issuing of the certificate was not an endorsement of Mr Tan's social media posts.
Earlier on Monday, the Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE) voiced concerns over Mr Tan's participation in the upcoming Presidential Election, given his "history of objectifying women". A viral TikTok video showed several posts by the former NTUC Income chief executive about "pretty" girls. The women’s rights group said the decision to grant Mr Tan an eligibility certificate "suggests a systemic endorsement”.
In response to media queries, the PEC said on Monday night that it was not aware of Mr Tan's posts before the certificate was issued. "Hence, the issuing of the certificate could not have amounted to an endorsement of Mr Tan’s social media posts by the PEC," said the committee. After an eligibility certificate has been issued, the PEC is "not legally entitled to revisit its earlier decision".
Certificate of eligibility not an endorsement of Tan Kin Lian’s social media posts: PEC
The Presidential Elections Committee has responded to media queries after a TikTok video, which featured screenshots of several Facebook posts where Tan mentioned his encounters with “pretty girls”, made its rounds. PHOTO: BT FILE
THE Presidential Elections Committee (PEC) has clarified that it was not aware of presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian’s social media posts describing his encounters with “pretty girls” in Singapore, mainly on buses and at Aperia Mall.
Granting a certificate of eligibility to the 75-year-old former NTUC Income chief therefore could not have amounted to an endorsement of his social media posts, it said on Monday (Aug 21) night. The PEC was responding to media queries after a TikTok video, which featured screenshots of several Facebook posts in which Tan mentioned these “pretty girls”, made its rounds.
Tan himself addressed the posts on Monday, telling reporters that only “a very small minority” find such posts “uncomfortable”, and that “most people find them enjoyable”. Later in the day, the Association of Women for Action and Research (Aware) voiced concerns over Tan’s participation, citing his “history of objectifying women” based on the Facebook posts. Aware also spoke of a “systemic worry” in the granting of a certificate of eligibility to such a person. It “signifies that these views and behaviours are not just acceptable, but perhaps even agreeable enough for a potential presidency”, its statement read.
Tan Kin Lian addresses criticisms over Facebook posts on ‘pretty girls’
Presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian, 75, has dismissed criticisms of his Facebook posts that mention pretty girls, saying only a small minority are uncomfortable with them. On Monday, Mr Tan addressed the issue after a TikTok video compiling several of such posts went viral over the weekend. It has been viewed more than 225,000 times as of Monday evening.
The former NTUC Income chief executive has occasionally made references to “pretty girls”, “pretty joggers” and “pretty slim girls” on his public Facebook page. There have been at least 18 such posts since 2022, and five since the start of 2023. Most visitors to his page found such posts “quite light (and) quite enjoyable”, Mr Tan told reporters during a walkabout at West Coast Market Square.
“There will be a few people who feel uncomfortable, but that is a very small minority,” he said in response to a question about these posts. “(The) majority actually find that to be quite okay – quite fun.” Mr Tan said such posts are how he builds his online audience, and that he has other posts, such as those about his meals “that bring in 100,000 people, half a million people... simple posts”.
Presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian addresses concerns about Facebook posts on 'pretty girls'
Former NTUC Income chief executive Tan Kin Lian has occasionally made references to “pretty girls”, “pretty joggers” and “pretty slim girls” on his public Facebook page. PHOTO: Lianhe Zaobao
Presidential hopeful Tan Kin Lian, 75, has dismissed criticisms of his Facebook posts that mention pretty girls, saying only a small minority are uncomfortable with them. On Monday, Mr Tan addressed the issue after a TikTok video compiling several of such posts went viral over the weekend. It has been viewed more than 225,000 times as of Monday evening.
The former NTUC Income chief executive has occasionally made references to “pretty girls”, “pretty joggers” and “pretty slim girls” on his public Facebook page. There have been at least 18 such posts since 2022, and five since the start of 2023. Most visitors to his page found such posts “quite light (and) quite enjoyable”, Mr Tan told reporters during a walkabout at West Coast Market Square.
“There will be a few people who feel uncomfortable, but that is a very small minority,” he said in response to a question about these posts. “(The) majority actually find that to be quite okay – quite fun.”
'Would I be a liability to him?': Sybil Lau on her fiancé Ng Kok Song & why she’s not concerned if people judge her
Much has been said about Sybil Lau over the past weeks. But less so from her directly. The 45-year-old made her first public appearance at the Elections Department on Jul. 19 as the enigmatic fiancée of presidential hopeful Ng Kok Song.
Then, she spoke just a few lines, mostly in somewhat halting Mandarin — which, combined with the couple's famous thirty-year age gap, sparked a barrage of online memes and jokes. Given all that, I'm somewhat apprehensive when we sit down together at the Mothership office for an interview. Would she be nervous? Defensive? Reluctant to be there at all?
Turns out I didn't have anything to worry about. Lau is quietly charming off-camera, candidly admitting to being unfamiliar with the spotlight and in front of the camera. "It was something totally new to me. I think it was the first time I ever spoke to the media," she says.
7 things to know about Sybil Lau, 45, fiancee of presidential hopeful Ng Kok Song, 75
Mr Ng Kok Song (left) and fiancee Sybil Lau at the Elections Department on July 19, 2023
Former GIC investment chief Ng Kok Song, 75, announced his presidential bid at the Elections Department on Wednesday (July 19). He was accompanied by his 45-year-old fiancee Sybil Lau, his two daughters, his son and their spouses. His children, aged 33 to 50, are from his first marriage. His first wife died from cancer in 2005.
In addressing the media, Mr Ng outlined three reasons for wanting to stand as a presidential candidate. The first, he said, is that he wants to give Singaporeans the opportunity to choose their president, rather than face the possibility of a walkover. The second is that he has been building up Singapore's reserves for 45 years at sovereign wealth fund GIC and the Monetary Authority of Singapore. He said the President has the "critical role of safeguarding our reserves". And third, he said that that he has never been affiliated with any political party.
After making his pitch, Mr Ng introduced his family members including Ms Lau and invited her to speak. She said in both English and Mandarin: “Kok Song is standing for President to serve the people of Singapore. Our family and I fully support him.”
Tharman, Ng Kok Song & Tan Kin Lian Get Presidential Election Eligibility Certificates, George Goh Unsuccessful
3 of the 6 individuals who submitted applications were issued the Certificate of Eligibility
The Elections Department of Singapore (ELD) has announced the result of the applications for the Certificate of Eligibility for the upcoming Presidential Elections.
Of the six applications ELD received, Certificates of Eligibility were issued to three — Mr Ng Kok Song, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, and Mr Tan Kin Lian. Businessman George Goh, who was one of the popular hopefuls — had his application rejected.
All six applicants have been notified about the result of their applications. ELD announced the results of the applications on Friday (18 Aug) morning via a press release.
Presidential election: Ng Kok Song, Tharman and Tan Kin Lian get eligibility certificates to contest
(From left) Former GIC investment chief Ng Kok Song, former senior minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam and former NTUC Income chief Tan Kin Lian received their certificates of eligibility. PHOTOS: LIANHE ZAOBAO, ST FILE
Former GIC investment chief Ng Kok Song, 75, former senior minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, 66, and former NTUC Income chief Tan Kin Lian, 75, have been issued their certificates of eligibility by the Presidential Elections Committee (PEC), the Elections Department (ELD) said in a statement on Friday.
Mr Tharman’s team said he had received it at around 10.30am, while Mr Tan’s team confirmed it in a call with The Straits Times at around 11.17am. Mr Ng’s team confirmed at about 11.45am. Entrepreneur George Goh, 63, did not qualify to contest the election. ELD’s statement on Friday had named the three successful applicants and listed the reasons for their applications to be accepted.
It said that based on the information available to the PEC, the committee was satisfied that all three men were of integrity, good character and reputation. It had also taken into account the nature of the roles of Mr Ng and Mr Tan, who had applied under the deliberative routes, as well as their performance in those roles. The six-member PEC is headed by Public Service Commission chairman Lee Tzu Yang and includes the chairman of the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority and two Supreme Court judges.
ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATE OF ELIGIBILITY FOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION 2023
At the close of applications for a Certificate of Eligibility on 17 August 2023, 5:30pm, the Presidential Elections Committee (Committee) received a total of 6 applications. The Committee has issued a Certificate of Eligibility to the following:
- Mr Ng Kok Song
- Mr Shanmugaratnam Tharman
- Mr Tan Kin Lian.
Mr Ng Kok Song applied under Article 19(3)(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of Singapore (Constitution). Based on the information available to the Committee, it is satisfied that Mr Ng is a man of integrity, good character and reputation. The Committee noted that Mr Ng was the Group Chief Investment Officer of GIC Private Limited for a period exceeding 3 years. The Committee is also satisfied, having regard to the nature of Mr Ng’s office in GIC Private Limited and Mr Ng’s performance in the office, that Mr Ng has experience and ability that is comparable to the experience and ability of a person who satisfies Article 19(3)(b) of the Constitution. The Committee is also satisfied that Mr Ng has the experience and ability to effectively carry out the functions and duties of the office of President.
Mr Shanmugaratnam Tharman applied under Article 19(3)(a) of the Constitution. Based on the information available to the Committee, it is satisfied that Mr Tharman is a man of integrity, good character and reputation. The Committee is also satisfied that Mr Tharman has met the public sector service requirement under Article 19(3)(a), having held office for a period of 3 or more years as Minister.
Mr Tan Kin Lian applied under Article 19(4)(b) of the Constitution. Based on the information available to the Committee, it is satisfied that Mr Tan is a man of integrity, good character and reputation. The Committee noted that Mr Tan was the Chief Executive Officer of NTUC Income Insurance Co-operative Limited for a period exceeding 3 years. The Committee is satisfied, having regard to the nature of Mr Tan’s office in NTUC Income Insurance Co-operative Limited, the size and complexity of NTUC Income Insurance Co-operative Limited and Mr Tan’s performance in the office, that Mr Tan has experience and ability that is comparable to the experience and ability of a person who has served as the chief executive of a typical company with at least S$500 million of shareholders’ equity and who satisfies Article 19(4)(a) of the Constitution in relation to such service. The Committee is also satisfied that Mr Tan
has the experience and ability to effectively carry out the functions and duties of the
office of President.
As far as we know, four hopefuls have expressed their interest in running for the 2023 Singapore presidential election — Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Ng Kok Song, George Goh, and Tan Kin Lian.
But just this evening (17 Aug), the Elections Department Singapore (ELD) announced that they’ve received six applications for the Certificate of Eligibility. That means that there may be two other candidates who have yet to make their bids public.
On Thursday (17 Aug) evening, ELD revealed in a press release that a total of six applicants have registered for the Certificate of Eligibility as of 5.30pm, which was the closing of the application. ELD did not name the six people who submitted applications for a certificate of eligibility.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong issued the writ of election for the 2023 Presidential Election on 11 Aug 2023.
Each nomination must be accompanied by a S$40,500 deposit and must be submitted together with the certificate of eligibility and political donation certificate. In addition, applications for the certificate of eligibility and the submission of community declarations will close on the fifth day after the writ of election is issued, according to the Elections Department. Late applications will not be accepted.
Lee Hsien Loong 45 m
Today, I issued the Writ of Election for the Presidential Election. Nomination Day will be on 22 August.
A few individuals have already declared their intention to run for the Presidency. The media have widely reported on them, and I’m sure we will hear more from the candidates themselves during the campaign period.
The President represents all Singaporeans and stands as a symbol of our unity and aspirations. Listen to what each candidate has to say and assess them and their views carefully. I hope everyone will vote wisely for the best candidate for this important role. – LHL
Presidential Election 2023
Voters can use Singpass at polling stations in upcoming Presidential Election.
For the first time, voters will be able to use their Singpass app in place of the physical National Registration Identity Card (NRIC) to verify their identity at polling stations in the upcoming presidential election, which is to be held by Sept 13. Voters can still choose to take along their pink NRIC if they do not have a Singpass account, the Elections Department told The Straits Times.
As on July, there were 2.7 million eligible voters, an increase of 55,000 from the 2.65 million in the 2020 General Election
Applications for the Presidential Election opens on June 13 & will close on the fifth day after the Writ of Election is issued by PM Lee Hsien Loong
Potential candidates who wish to run in the Presidential Election (PE) can apply for a Certificate of Eligibility from Tuesday (Jun 13). This is the first step in order to enter the presidential race. Prospective candidates must also submit a community declaration. Applications for the Certificate of Eligibility and submission of community declarations will close on the fifth day after the Writ of Election is issued, the Elections Department (ELD) said in a press release on Monday. Late applications will not be accepted, it added.
The Certificate of Eligibility certifies that the candidate is a person of integrity, good character and reputation, and meets the relevant public sector or private sector service requirements. To qualify, the prospective candidate must have held a senior public office or helmed a company that has at least S$500 million (US$370 million) in shareholders' equity for at least three years.
The contender must also be a Singapore citizen, be at least 45 years old on Nomination Day and not belong to any political party. The Presidential Elections Committee, which will evaluate the candidates and issue the Certificate of Eligibility, is chaired by Mr Lee Tzu Yang, the chairman of the Public Service Commission.
Tharman formally launches bid to be Singapore's 'President for a new era'
Presidential hopeful Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the launch of his campaign to be elected president of Singapore, at the York Hotel on Wednesday, Jul 26, 2023
Singapore's former senior minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam on Wednesday (Jul 26) said he intended to be "a President for a new era" as he officially launched his campaign for the office.
“I stepped into this race because I feel very strongly in the need to evolve Singapore's culture, some of our norms and the way we go about working with each other so that we remain a shining spot in the world,” said Mr Tharman at a press conference at the York Hotel.
The official launch comes more than a month after Mr Tharman first announced his intention to run for President. On Jun 8, he informed Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong that he was putting himself forward as a candidate, and in doing so leaving politics and the People’s Action Party. Accompanied by his wife Jane Yumiko Ittogi on Wednesday, Mr Tharman outlined challenges facing Singapore both globally and domestically and emphasised that the nation's real challenge was to avoid becoming a divided society.
Tan Kin Lian: If all presidential hopefuls qualify, I will withdraw from election
After making several remarks about wanting to convince his fellow presidential hopeful George Goh to step down if both of them qualify, former chief executive officer of NTUC income Tan Kin Lian seems to have changed his mind.
Tan, 75, told the media during his walkabout at Bedok Reservoir Food Centre on Thursday (Aug 17) morning that he would withdraw from the race if all four presidential hopefuls are eligible to run for head of state, reported Lianhe Zaobao.
And should he decide to throw in the towel, Tan told AsiaOne that he'll lose about $25,000 — which he's spent on posters, banners and flyers for his campaign. He added that the $40,500 deposit, which he already paid, will be refunded to him if he pulls out of the race.
Tan Kin Lian wants to discuss with George Goh who should step down if both qualify to run
He also said that he expected either himself or Goh to qualify for the election, CNA reported. Should Goh be the one to qualify, Tan said he would give him his "full support" as he believes it is important to have an independent candidate. "But if I qualify and he doesn’t, I hope he will reciprocate," Tan said.
He added - "If both of us qualify, I still think it is a good idea that we should discuss who should step down because it's not good to have a split vote among those who want to have an independent president."
Tan Jee Say endorses Tan Kin Lian for President: A courageous, genuine, and humble choice for Singapore
Speech by Tan Jee Say at the press conference of Tan Kin Lian who launched his presidential campaign on Friday (11 Aug) in a press conference at Copthorne King’s Hotel:
- I support Mr Tan Kin Lian as candidate for President. He will make a good president, a courageous, genuine, and humble one.
- For someone who lost his deposit in the 2011 presidential election 12 years ago, it definitely takes a lot of courage to place himself at the mercy of the voters to contest again. No matter what, I think we can all admit – that courage is commendable. Kin Lian has also asked me to be his proposer in the event that he goes ahead with his nomination.
- As you all know, I was one of his opponents in the 2011 Presidential Election – for him to ask me to be his proposer, I think that in itself speaks volumes about his humility. I believe that if elected, Kin Lian will bring this humble and courageous attitude to listen to all sides and genuinely serve the people of Singapore.
Tan Kin Lian Indicates He’s Running For President Again, Says He Submitted Application Already
In 2011, Singapore had a memorable “Tan, Tan, Tan, Tan” Presidential Election, in which Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam emerged victorious. Mr Tan Kin Lian was one of the losing candidates then, scoring the lowest number of votes among the four.
That seemingly hasn’t deterred him from trying again, as he has indicated that he’s throwing his hat into the ring for the upcoming Presidential Election. He also said he has already submitted an application for the election.
In a Facebook post on Sunday (30 July) night, Mr Tan informed his followers that he has submitted his application for the Certificate of Eligibility. In fact, he did this 3 weeks ago. Applications for those who wish to run for the Presidential Election opened on 13 June, said the Elections Department (ELD).
Former candidate Tan Kin Lian applies for eligibility certificate for 2023 Presidential Election
A photo of Mr Tan Kin Lian, who had ran for President of Singapore in 2011. (Photo: Facebook/Tan Kin Lian)
Former Presidential candidate Tan Kin Lian announced on Sunday (Jul 30) that he had submitted his application for a certificate of eligibility for the 2023 Presidential Election.
In a media release, Mr Tan, 75, said he submitted the application on Jul 11 through a proxy. "I did not collect the form from the election department because I was able to download the form earlier from the website of the election department," he said, adding that he had earlier submitted his community declaration. The former chief of NTUC Income came in last of four candidates at the 2011 Presidential Election, securing 4.91 per cent of the more than 2.2 million votes.
Among the four potential 2023 Presidential candidates, Mr Tan said he believes that former senior minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam and himself "meet the full requirements as set out in the constitution".
Presidential hopeful Ng Kok Song submits forms, stresses importance of Singapore’s reserves
Presidential hopeful Ng Kok Song told media he has submitted his application for a certificate of eligibility to contest the upcoming presidential election. He also confirmed that former foreign minister George Yeo is one of his character references
Presidential hopeful Ng Kok Song has submitted his application for a certificate of eligibility to contest the upcoming presidential election.
Speaking to the media during a visit to the Teochew Poit Ip Huay Kuan on Thursday night, Mr Ng, 75, said he had submitted the forms on Wednesday to be considered eligible via the public sector deliberative track – or, in his words, based on his experience and duration of service as GIC’s former chief investment officer. Mr Ng had spoken to members of the Teochew clan association.
Elaborating on why Singapore’s reserves are strategically important, he said there are three reasons:
- One, they are the country’s financial defence in times of war, and are crucial to post-war reconstruction.
- Second, they help to save jobs and support lower-income Singaporeans in times of economic crisis, as seen in the draw on reserves during the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Third, they keep the Singapore dollar strong, he said. This is important because Singapore buys many things from overseas, and the strength of the Singapore dollar helps to reduce costs domestically and keep inflation down.
First prize for President hopeful Ng Kok Song
Mr Ng Kok Song aged 75 accompanied by his fiancee Sybil Lau aged 45 at the Elections Department on July 19, 2023. ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH
The combined ages of Mr Ng Kok Song aged 75 and his fiancee Sybil Lau aged 45, won the First Price drawn by Singapore Pools on 2 Aug 2023.
Former GIC investment chief Ng Kok Song announces bid for Singapore presidential election
Mr Ng Kok Song, 75, accompanied by his fiancee Sybil Lau, 45, at the Elections Department on July 19, 2023. ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH
Former GIC chief investment officer Ng Kok Song turned up at the Elections Department (ELD) on Wednesday around 10.30am, accompanied by his fiancee.
The 75-year-old had told The Straits Times on July 15 that he was “deliberating” running for President, as it was an issue of great national importance and there would be immense personal implications. After collecting his forms, Mr Ng told reporters outside ELD that he has three reasons to run for President: to give Singaporeans a choice; because he has been involved in building up the reserves, and as he is independent.
About a month ago on June 12, entrepreneur George Goh said he intended to contest in the upcoming presidential election. Former Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam had earlier declared his bid on June 8, and resigned from the Government and People’s Action Party on July 7. Incumbent President Halimah Yacob has said she will not stand for re-election when her term ends on Sept 13. Candidates interested in running for the presidency have been able to collect forms from the Elections Department or its website since June 13.
Former GIC chief investment officer Ng Kok Song announces bid to run for President
Former GIC chief investment officer Ng Kok Song and his fiancee Sybil Lau arrive at the Elections Department in Singapore on Jul 19, 2023. (Photo: CNA/Raydza Rahman)
Former GIC chief investment officer Ng Kok Song has announced on his website his intention to run for the Singapore presidency. The 75-year-old arrived at the Elections Department on Wednesday morning (Jul 19), accompanied by his fiancée Sybil Lau, who is in her 40s, and his three children.
He is the third presidential hopeful to throw his hat into the ring. In a statement sent to the media, Mr Ng said he has been thinking about standing for the presidency for some time. "Concerns about the integrity of our national institutions have convinced me that I should stand for President," he said. Mr Ng noted that Singaporeans want to exercise their right to vote for their President and not have another walkover, adding that he has never been a political figure.
"An independent President is better able to unite our country. Singapore faces uncertain and difficult times ahead. We may have our differences of views and political affiliations, but differences must not become divisions in our society," he said. "As an independent President, I will be better able to help unite our country to face an uncertain future."
Former GIC investment chief Ng Kok Song ‘deliberating’ bid for Singapore presidency
Mr Ng Kok Song retired from GIC in 2013 after 27 years with the sovereign wealth fund. PHOTO: BLOOMBERG
Former GIC chief investment officer Ng Kok Song said on Saturday that he is deliberating a run for the presidency. Responding to queries from The Straits Times, Mr Ng, 75, said: “It is an issue of great national importance, and there will be immense personal implications. I am still deliberating.” An online report on Friday put forth his name as a potential candidate in the upcoming presidential election.
Mr Ng’s remarks come more than a month after entrepreneur George Goh said on June 12 that he intended to contest the upcoming presidential election. Former senior minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam declared his bid on June 8 and resigned from the Government and People’s Action Party on July 7. Incumbent President Halimah Yacob has said she will not stand for re-election when her term ends on Sept 13.
Mr Ng retired from GIC – Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund – in 2013 after 27 years. He is currently executive chairman of investment firm Avanda Investment Management, which he co-founded with two former GIC colleagues in 2015.
PE2023: George Goh submits certificate of eligibility
When entrepreneur George Goh was at the Elections Department (ELD) on June 13, he described his "confidence" of qualifying to run in the upcoming Presidential Election.
The 63-year-old chairman of Ossia International returned to the same building in Novena on Friday (Aug 4) morning, this time to submit his application for a certificate of eligibility. Goh's wife Lysa Sumali and four children turned up with him at around 10am. A group of around 50 of his supporters, most of them decked in red, were also present. Shouts of "George Goh for President" could be heard.
Speaking to reporters outside the ELD, Goh said that the documents he would be submitting are a "recognition of my hard work over the years". He then made his way into the building and spent about 20 minutes inside.
Mr George Goh who brought Harvey Norman to S’pore will contest as an independent candidate. PHOTO: BERITA HARIAN
Entrepreneur George Goh, who brought Australian retailer Harvey Norman to Singapore, announced in a press statement on Monday that he will be running for the presidency, putting an end to several months of speculation.
The 63-year-old is the group executive chairman of Ossia International, a Singapore Exchange-listed company that deals in consumer products such as footwear and apparel. He is also the non-resident ambassador to Morocco, a post he has held since 2017. He was renewed for a second term as ambassador in September 2020. To contest the elections, and to maintain his independence, Mr Goh tendered his letter of resignation to the Foreign Affairs Ministry on June 9.
His announcement comes after Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam said on June 8 that he would be resigning from the Government and People’s Action Party on July 7 to stand for election in the upcoming poll. President Halimah Yacob has said she will not stand for re-election when her term ends on Sept 13.
related:
George Goh defends his eligibility to run for president, says he formed team to gauge qualifications
George Goh on what he would do as president, and how he measures up to Tharman
Mr George Goh (with his wife Lysa Sumali) said his team advised him that the "stable of companies which he manages, taken together, would enable him to qualify". ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG
Businessman and presidential hopeful George Goh has heard many “angry people” complain about the criterion for private-sector candidates to enter the presidential race.
A candidate needs to have run a company with $500 million in shareholder equity for three years, and Mr Goh says some people think this makes it too difficult for anyone to qualify. They also feel that the criterion for public-sector candidates should be raised in the same vein, he adds.
But Mr Goh, who made known his intention to run for president in June, takes a more sanguine view of the criterion put in place in 2016 to take into account the growth of the economy and the national reserves. To him, it helps to separate the wheat from the chaff.
Who is George Goh? 5 facts about the businessman who intends to run for Singapore presidency
Mr George Goh (centre) with his family at the elections department on Jun 13, 2023. (From left) Mr Goh's daughters, Ms Jovina Goh and Ms Joanna Goh, Mr Goh's wife Madam Lysa Sumali, his youngest daughter Ms Ingrid Goh, and his son, Mr Jonathan Goh. (Photo: CNA/Try Sutrisno Foo)
The 63-year-old founder of Harvey Norman Ossia said he would contest as an “independent candidate” and stressed his financial and managerial skills as an entrepreneur. “To maintain the integrity of the office, the President must not only be above politics but be perceived as such,” he said in a press statement.
Mr Goh is the second person to indicate his intention to run, after Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam. Here are five things to know about Mr Goh:
- FAMILY LIFE - Mr Goh, who is married to Madam Lysa Sumali, has four children – daughters Joanna, Jovina and Ingrid, and son Jonathan. Mr Goh’s first wife died when he was 40.
- ENTREPRENEURSHIP - Mr Goh is the chairman of Ossia International, an SGX-listed company with a market capitalisation of about S$45 million (US$33 million) as of Monday.
- PUBLIC SERVICE AND CHARITY - Mr Goh began serving as Singapore’s non-resident ambassador to Morocco in 2017. He tendered his resignation this month. He also sits on the council of the Red Cross Society.
- RELIGIOUS FAITH - Mr Goh is an executive board member of the Presbyterian Community Services and Presbyterian Preschool Services.
- MUSICAL PURSUITS - The businessman is a music lover. He obtained a degree in music from Trinity College London last year, focusing on classical singing.
SM Tharman Shanmugaratnam is the first person to throw his hat into the ring
Mr Tharman will resign from Govt & PAP on July 7 & also be stepping down from other responsibilities he has been undertaking in his ministerial capacity. ST PHOTO: JASON QUAH
Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam will be running for president in the upcoming election, stepping aside from politics after 22 years.
“I wish to inform you that I have decided to put myself forward as a candidate in the forthcoming presidential election. I hence wish to retire from politics and all my positions in Government,” he said in a letter to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Thursday. PM Lee is also secretary-general of the People’s Action Party.
Mr Tharman said he plans to resign from the PAP and step down from his posts as Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for Social Policies on July 7 – a month from Thursday. This is so that he can first fulfil his immediate commitments in Singapore and internationally and ensure that arrangements are fully in place for his constituents in Jurong GRC to be well-served for the rest of the electoral term, he said.
Tharman Shares About Wife In Rare Facebook Post, She Runs NGO That Uplifts S’pore Residents
They've been married for 33 years & have 4 children, daughter Maya, 3 sons Aran, Arivan & Akilan
As Singapore’s presidential hopefuls step into the limelight, their partners are also drawing much attention, as citizens begin to wonder who their future First Lady might be. All eyes were recently on Sybil Lau, Mr Ng Kok Song’s wife. Now, the buzz is around Ms Jane Yumiko Ittogi, wife to former Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam. This was especially after the latter opened up about his spouse in a rare Facebook post.
Updating his profile photo on Tuesday (25 July), Mr Tharman took the chance to share a glimpse of his love story with his wife and more about her as a person. He began the post by sharing about her interactions with residents, who would often converse in English, Mandarin, Teochew or Malay with her. What never fails to amuse the couple is when someone attempts to speak in Japanese, which leaves Ms Jane stumped.
Mr Tharman clarified that his wife doesn’t understand Japanese despite her name. Yes, Ms Jane was born to a Japanese merchant father and a Singaporean Chinese mother. However, she apparently grew up in a kampong or village where most people spoke Teochew, a Chinese dialect.
Tharman Shanmugaratnam 18 hrs
Whenever my wife Jane was with me when I was still in Jurong, people would speak with her in Teochew, Mandarin or Malay. Or English for the younger ones.
But when we go to hawker centres in other parts of the island, someone will occasionally come up to her to practise their Japanese : O genki desu ka? And we have a good laugh explaining that she doesn’t speak Japanese, despite her name, Jane Yumiko Ittogi.
So let me explain. Jane has lived in Singapore since she was three. Born to a Japanese merchant father and a local Singaporean Chinese mother, who had four children. She started off in a mainly Teochew-speaking kampong, and like most Singaporeans then entered Primary 1 with zero ability to read or write English. But she enjoyed learning from teachers and books, quite unlike myself as I was totally consumed with my sports.
Entrepreneur George Goh (left) and former secondary school teacher Seng Soon Kia at the Elections Department office on June 13. ST PHOTOS: KUA CHEE SIONG
Just two presidential aspirants turned up at the Elections Department (ELD) office on Tuesday, the first day that candidates wishing to contest the upcoming Presidential Election can pick up their application forms.
Entrepreneur George Goh, who announced his presidential bid on Monday, was at the Novena office at about 10am with his wife and four children. This was followed by the arrival at around 2pm of former secondary school teacher Seng Soon Kia. Mr Seng spent about 20 minutes pacing outside the office before he strode in to pick up his forms.
Asked why he wanted to run for president, the 72-year-old former woodwork teacher said there were several issues in Singapore that he felt have to be addressed. Speaking in Mandarin through his face mask, Mr Seng said he wanted to push for a return to a work schedule common during the Covid-19 pandemic, when people could work from home and return to their workplace only a few days each week. He also wished to improve the condition of public toilets and the standard of public bus services. Mr Seng said he had written down more issues to be addressed, but had left his notes at home.
Former sec school teacher, 72, picks up presidential application form after George Goh
When George Goh picked up his presidential application form on Jun. 13, most eyes and ears were on him. At his doorstop interview, the founder of Harvey Norman Ossia addressed his eligibility to run for president, and the importance of an independent candidate. His departure from the Elections Department saw the crowd gradually taking their leave as well, causing most people to miss out on another candidate, who also quietly made his move that afternoon.
Around 2pm, former secondary school teacher Seng Soon Kia was seen pacing outside the office for about 20 minutes, before striding in to pick up a presidential application form of his own, reported The Straits Times. Seng was casually dressed in a t-shirt, shorts, and slippers. The 72-year-old former woodwork teacher said that he wants to run for president, as there are some issues in the country that need to be addressed.
Speaking in Mandarin, Seng told ST that he wishes to campaign for working schedules akin to those during the Covid-19 pandemic, where people can work from home and report to office only a few days each week. He also wants to improve the condition of public toilets and the standard of public bus services. Seng added that he had noted down more things to be addressed, but he had left his notes at home.
Senior Minister Tharman plans to resign from the PAP & step down from his ministerial roles
Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam intends to run for the Singapore presidency in an election that must be held by Sep 13.
Mr Tharman, 66, on Thursday (Jun 8) informed Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of his decision to retire from politics and all his positions in government. He also said he intends to resign from the People's Action Party.
"I plan to do so a month from now, on Jul 7, 2023, so that I can first fulfil my immediate official commitments in Singapore and internationally and ensure that arrangements are fully in place for constituents of Jurong GRC to be well-served for the rest of the electoral term," Mr Tharman wrote in a letter to the Prime Minister. He will also step down as chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), deputy chairman of GIC, chairman of the Economic Development Board's International Advisory Council and other responsibilities he has been undertaking in his ministerial capacity.
Singaporeans Wanted Him to be Prime Minister. Now He’s Running for President
Tharman Shanmugaratnam delivers a speech at the Singapore Management University on Sept. 22, 2022. Singapore Press via AP Images
Since he entered Singaporean politics just over two decades ago, Tharman Shanmugaratnam has shied away from persistent calls by the public that he should be the Southeast Asian country’s next Prime Minister. An extremely popular lawmaker who has risen the ranks of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) and is even liked among members of the opposition, Tharman has insisted he’s not right for the top job. He even likened his governing skills to soccer, saying he is better as a team player who can provide assists than as the star who scores the goals. “I enjoy,” he told Fareed Zakaria in 2015, “making the long passes. But I am not the striker.”
Now, however, it seems like Tharman, 66, is ready to hang up his boots altogether and take on the arguably more visible—albeit on the sidelines—role of mascot. On Thursday, Tharman, currently a Cabinet minister, announced his resignation from government and intention to run for President, a largely ceremonial role with a smattering of constitutional duties.
It’s a far cry from seeking the premiership—currently held by Lee Hsien Loong, who is the son of Singapore’s founding Prime Minister and who is expected to retire and handpick his successor before the country’s next general election in 2025—but it’s a move that helps sidestep for now the looming question of whether the Chinese-majority city-state (or its ruling party) of 6 million people that touts its multiracial, pluralistic society is ready or reluctant to elevate a racial minority to the head of government. (Tharman is ethnically Tamil, while all three of Singapore’s Prime Ministers since its founding have been of Chinese descent.)
Once ruled out as potential PM, Singapore’s Tharman Shanmugaratnam quits cabinet to make bid for elected president
Observers said Singapore’s ruling party can leverage the formidable popularity of Tharman Shanmugaratnam to stave off contenders for the elected office. Photo: AFP
A respected elder statesman that Singapore’s ruling party once discounted as a potential prime minister because his Indian ethnicity was feared to be a handicap in the majority-Chinese city state is now its likely favourite for the post of president.
Tharman Shanmugaratnam, 66, on Thursday became the first individual to throw his hat into the ring for the presidential poll due by mid-September. He declared his plan to resign from the Singapore cabinet to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Thursday, setting his final day in office as senior minister and coordinating minister for social policies on July 7, the prime minister’s office announced as it released an exchange of letters between the two men.
If I am fortunate enough to be elected as president I will represent the unity of Singaporeans, of all races and religions, social backgrounds and political leanings, at a time when views in the population are becoming more diverse. I will also work to the best of my ability.
SM Tharman confirms candidacy for S’pore’s upcoming presidential elections
Singapore is gearing up for a significant milestone in its democratic process as the nation prepares for the upcoming presidential elections. Amidst mounting anticipation, former Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam has officially declared his candidacy, making him a formidable contender in the race for the nation’s highest office.
In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong today (June 8), Mr Tharman announced his decision to participate as a candidate in the upcoming presidential election. As a result, he expressed his intention to retire from politics and resign from all his government positions. Mr Tharman, 66, stated his plan to relinquish his membership in the People’s Action Party (PAP) and step down from his roles as Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for Social Policies on July 7, which is a month from the day of the letter.
He explained that this timing allows him to fulfil his existing commitments both domestically and internationally, while also ensuring that proper arrangements are made to ensure the continued welfare of his constituents in Jurong GRC for the remainder of the electoral term. This announcement comes after President Halimah Yacob said on May 29 that she would not be running for a second term.
Harvey Norman Ossia founder George Goh in bid to run for Singapore presidency
George Goh, founder of Harvey Norman Ossia, sets sights on Singapore presidency, announcing his candidacy on Monday (12 June). (PHOTO: georgegohchingwah.com)
George Goh, founder of Harvey Norman Ossia, has announced his intention to run for the presidency in Singapore on Monday (12 June).
This makes the 63-year-old the second person to publicise his intention to take part in the upcoming Presidential Election, following Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam's announcement last Thursday.
According to a statement from his media team, Goh will run as an independent candidate. He has no affiliations with any political party, both in the past and present. "He has no political baggage. He was never in the public sector," the media statement said. "He is an entrepreneur who started working at the age of 16, and has since built a business empire spanning 14 countries."
S’pore’s eighth President Halimah Yacob announces decision not to stand for re-election
Singapore’s President Halimah Yacob made a significant announcement today (May 29), stating that she will not stand for re-election in the upcoming Presidential Election, which is scheduled to take place in a few months’ time.
President Halimah, who has served as the eighth President of Singapore for the past six years, expressed her gratitude and reflected on her time in a video, which she shared in her Facebook page. “It has been a great honour and privilege to serve as the eighth President of Singapore for the past six years,” President Halimah said. “The experience has been most inspiring and, at the same time, humbling.” She acknowledged the immense responsibilities that come with the presidency and expressed her commitment to creating a more caring and compassionate society during her tenure.
President Halimah took office in 2017, becoming the first female president of Singapore and the first Malay president in 47 years. Throughout her term, she has strived to serve all Singaporeans regardless of their race, language, or social standing, aiming to foster unity and inclusivity within the nation. In her post, she also thanked various community, social, and business organisations that have inspired her with their conviction and enthusiasm to build a better Singapore.
President Halimah Yacob: 'I have decided not to stand for re-election'
Madam Halimah Yacob is the eighth President of Singapore
President Halimah Yacob, 68, will not be standing for re-election in the next presidential election, she said in a statement on Monday (May 29). "It has been a great honour and privilege to serve as the eighth President of Singapore for the past six years. The experience has been most inspiring and, at the same time, humbling," she said.
The next presidential election must be held by Sept 13 this year, when Madam Halimah’s term of office expires. Mdm Halimah took office on Sept 14 in 2017, after running in an uncontested election due to a lack of eligible candidates, because other nominees did not meet additional requirements to stand for election. She was the only one to be issued a certificate of eligibility by the Presidential Elections Committee.
The election was reserved for ethnic Malays because there had not been a president from the racial group for the five most recent presidential terms. The next elected presidency ahead will not be reserved for minority candidates.
Singapore's 8th and first female President
The move gives minority ethnic groups an assurance that their place in society will always be safeguarded, he said, just like how the group representation constituency system - which guarantees at least one candidate per constituency is from a minority race - ensures there will always be MPs from minority races in Parliament
The PAP secretary-general was referring to public unhappiness over the Constitutional amendments passed in November 2016, to reserve the elected presidency for candidates of a particular racial group if there had not been a president from the group for the five most recent presidential terms.
Critics said the decision went against Singapore's meritocratic values, and hundreds protested in Hong Lim Park days after the first election, reserved for Malays, saw Madam Halimah Yacob sworn in as President on Sept 14, 2017.
Mr Lee cited the issue as an example of how Singapore is proactively strengthening the institutions that support its multiracial and multi-religious society.
Presidential election 2023 — what happens next and why it matters
Talk of a possible contested election has intensified after President Halimah Yacob announced on Monday (May 29) that she will not be running for re-election in the next presidential election.
The six-year term of Madam Halimah, Singapore's eighth president, expires on Sept 13. Mdm Halimah took office on Sept 14 in 2017 after an uncontested election was held owing to a lack of other eligible candidates. The election was reserved for ethnic Malays because there had not been a president from the racial group for the five most recent presidential terms.
The upcoming elected presidency will not be reserved for minority candidates. TODAY takes a look at what can be expected next and why the upcoming elected presidency matters.
2023 Singaporean presidential election
Presidential elections are scheduled to be held in Singapore by 13 September 2023. The president of Singapore is the head of state of Republic of Singapore. The incumbent president is Halimah Yacob, who took office on 14 September 2017. She is also the first female president in the country's history.
Modelled after the Westminster system, the office is largely ceremonial, with the general direction and control of the Government exercised by the Cabinet led by the prime minister. However, the president has several powers designed to safeguard the national reserves and the integrity of the public service. Such powers include withholding assent to any supply bill that is likely to draw on the reserves which were not accumulated by the Government during its current term of office and refusing to make or revoking appointments to public offices such as Chief Justice, Attorney-General, Chief of Defence Force and Commissioner of Police amongst others. The current system of conducting elections for the presidency began with the 1993 presidential election and the swearing-in of Ong Teng Cheong. Prior to that, the president was appointed by Parliament.
There are strict requirements for prospective presidential candidates, and whether a candidate meets the qualifications or not is decided by the Presidential Elections Committee (PEC), who are given the task of issuing a certificate of eligibility (COE) to prospective candidates. The presidency is required by the Constitution to be non-partisan. Following amendments to the Constitution of Singapore, the next presidential election will be open to candidates of any racial community. The 2017 presidential election was the first to be reserved for a particular racial community under a hiatus-triggered model, and was restricted to candidates from the minority Malay community, who had not held the presidency since 1970. On 8 June 2023, Tharman Shanmugaratnam announced his resignation scheduled for 7 July 2023 from all his positions in government and as a member of the People's Action Party to run for the presidency. Prior to his announcement, Tharman served as Senior Minister, Coordinating Minister for Social Policies, and Chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
The president’s role and powers: 4 things to know
Singapore's president is the head of state and symbol of nation unity
With presidential hopefuls out and about, and another potential candidate expressing interest, the spotlight is now on the role of the president.
Former presidential candidate Tan Kin Lian became the fourth person to show interest this week. He said he has submitted his application for a certificate of eligibility, but has not decided if he will contest. Others who have announced their intention to run are former senior minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, entrepreneur George Goh and former GIC investment chief Ng Kok Song.
As the presidential election hots up, here is a guide to the elected presidency and the duties of the office:
- Head of state
- Working with Parliament and the Cabinet
- Public role
- Custodial functions
QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE OFFICE OF PRESIDENT
Public sector service requirement
The public sector service requirement is that the person has:
a. held office for three or more years as Minister, Chief Justice, Speaker of Parliament, Attorney-General, Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Auditor-General, Accountant-General or Permanent Secretary;b. served for three years or more as the chief executive of an entity specified in the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution;c. served for three or more years in an office in the public sector for which the PEC must be satisfied, having regard to the nature of the office and the person’s performance, that he has the experience and ability comparable to a person who satisfies public sector service requirement (a) or (b). The PEC must also be satisfied that he has the experience and ability to effectively carry out the functions and duties of the office of President; ord. held office or served for two periods of at least one year each in any of the above-mentioned offices, and the two periods add up to three or more years in total.
Private sector service requirement
The private sector service requirement is that the person has:
a. served as the chief executive of a company and the following four criteria are met:
i. the person’s most recent period of service as the chief executive of that company, ignoring any period of service less than a year, must be three or more years in length;ii. the company must have, on average, at least $500m shareholders’ equity during the person’s most recent three-year period of service as chief executive;iii. the company must have, on average, made profit after tax for the entire period during which the person served as the chief executive; andiv. if the person has ceased to be the chief executive of the company before the date of the Writ of Election, the company must not have been subject to any insolvency event within three years of the person’s last day of service as the chief executive, or until the date of the Writ of Election, whichever is earlier;
b. served for three or more years in an office in a private sector organisation and the PEC must be satisfied (having regard to the nature of the office, the size and complexity of the private sector organisation and the person’s performance in the office) that the person has the experience and ability comparable to a person who satisfies the criteria laid out in private sector service requirement (a). The PEC must also be satisfied that he has the experience and ability to effectively carry out the functions and duties of the office of President; or
c. served for two periods of at least one year each in any of the above-mentioned offices, and the two periods add up to three or more years in total.
EXPLANATORY MATERIAL ON THE ROLE OF THE PRESIDENT UNDER THE CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE
The President is the Head of State and hold office for a term of 6 years.
The President has two important roles - first, as a symbol and unifier of a diverse and multi-racial Singapore; and second, as a custodian of our nation's past reserves and the integrity of our public service.
The first Presidential Election was held on 28 August 1993.
2023 Singapore Presidential Election
According to the ELD, there were 6,649 registered overseas voters, of which 3,432 registered to vote by post. This was the first time postal voting was used in an election.
Of those who registered to vote by post, 2,997 downloaded the postal ballots and 1,345 of them were received by the deadline of Sep 11 and accepted for counting, said ELD. Another 2,454 Singaporeans cast their votes at the 10 overseas polling stations. The overseas polling stations are in Beijing, Canberra, Dubai, Hong Kong, London, New York, San Francisco, Shanghai, Tokyo and Washington.
Adding to the ballots cast in Singapore on Sep 1, the total number of votes cast at the Presidential Election 2023 was 2,534,711, of which 50,230 were rejected votes. About 93.55 per cent of the 2,709,407 registered electors voted in the 2023 Presidential Election.
A look back at the 5 times Singapore Presidential Election was previously held
The four elected Presidents of Singapore: (from left) Ong Teng Cheong, S R Nathan, Tony Tan and Halimah Yacob. (FILE PHOTOS: Reuters)
Before presidential elections in Singapore were introduced following a constitution amendment in 1991, the city-state's Parliament was in charge of electing and appointing the country's head of state.
Four presidents were appointed in that manner: Yusof Ishak (1965 to 1970), Benjamin Sheares (1971 to 1981), Devan Nair (1981 to 1985) and Wee Kim Wee (1985 to 1993).
Following the constitutional amendment to allow the president to be elected via popular vote for a six-year term, Singapore has held five presidential elections prior to this year. Of those five elections, only two were contested, while the other three saw a presidential candidate being elected unopposed. Here's how the five previous presidential elections transpired:
- 1993 Election - Candidates who applied for certificates of eligibility: Ong Teng Cheong, Chua Kim Yeow, JB Jeyaretnam, Tan Soo Phuan. Eligible candidates (percentage of valid votes): Ong Teng Cheong (58.69 per cent), Chua Kim Yeow (41.31 per cent). Candidate elected: Ong Teng Cheong.
- 1999 Election - Candidates who applied for certificates of eligibility: S R Nathan, Ooi Boon Ewe, Tan Soo Phuan. Eligible/elected candidate: S R Nathan (unopposed)
- 2005 Election - Candidates who applied for certificates of eligibility: S R Nathan, Andrew Kuan, Ooi Boon Ewe, Ramachandran Govindasamy Naidu. Eligible/elected candidate: S R Nathan (unopposed)
- 2011 Election - Candidates who applied for certificates of eligibility: Tony Tan, Tan Cheng Bock, Tan Jee Say, Tan Kin Lian, Andrew Kuan, Ooi Boon Ewe. Eligible candidates (percentage of valid votes): Tony Tan (35.2 per cent), Tan Cheng Bock (34.85 per cent), Tan Jee Say (25.04 per cent), Tan Kin Lian (4.91 per cent). Candidate elected: Tony Tan.
- 2017 Election - Candidates who applied for certificates of eligibility: Halimah Yacob, Mohamed Salleh Marican, Farid Khan, Shirwin Eu, Ooi Boon Ewe. Eligible/elected candidate: Halimah Yacob (unopposed)
2011 Singapore Presidential Election
Presidential elections were held in Singapore on 27 August 2011 after S.R. Nathan's term ended. Four eligible candidates were issued certificates of eligibility by the Presidential Elections Committee and were nominated on Nomination Day. The result was a victory for Tony Tan, who received 35.20% of the vote. Tan was sworn in as the seventh President of Singapore on 1 September 2011.
Results of the 2011 Presidential elections:
- At 8.00 pm, polling stations closed and ballot boxes were then sealed, and delivered to counting centres. The first candidate to concede defeat was Tan Kin Lian at about 10.30 pm local time, around two and a half hours after polls closed. He added he might not get his deposit of S$48,000 back but the experience of running the race has been useful. He said he was somewhat disappointed, but he believed he had put up a good fight and expected to do much better. He made a hint of the result by saying it "will be a tough fight between the top two candidates". When asked who the top two candidates were, Tan declined to comment.
- At 1.19 am on 28 August, it was announced by the Elections Department that a recount of ballots would begin, as the top two candidates, Tony Tan and Tan Cheng Bock's votes had a difference of less than 2 percent. The Returning Officer "allowed the recounting of all votes cast" after the first tally showed they were less than two percent apart, per the statement.
- At 4.23 am SST, the results were released by Returning Officer Yam Ah Mee at the Elections Department at Prinsep Street.
- Result for the presidential election 2011. Tan Cheng Bock, 737,128 votes (34.85%). Tan Jee Say, 529,732 votes (25.04%). Tony Tan Keng Yam, 744,397 votes (35.19%). Tan Kin Lian, 103,931 votes (4.91%). Rejected votes, 37,826. Total votes cast, 2,153,014. The local votes counted are conclusive of the results. Pursuant to Section 32, Subsection 8D, Paragraph A of the Presidential Elections Act, I declare Tony Tan Keng Yam as the candidate elected as the President of Singapore.
- Tony Tan was declared president-elect with 35.19% of the votes, leading by a 0.34% margin ahead of Tan Cheng Bock, or 7,269 votes. Tan Kin Lian, who polled under 5% of the 2,115,188 valid votes cast, had his election deposit of S$48,000 forfeited.
1993 Singapore Presidential Election
In January 1991, the Constitution of Singapore was amended to provide for the popular election of the President. The creation of the elected presidency was a major constitutional and political change in Singapore's history as, under the revision, the president is empowered to veto the use of government reserves and appointments to key Civil Service appointments. He or she can also examine the administration's enforcement of the Internal Security Act and Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act and look into investigations of corruption.
By virtue of transitional provisions in the Constitution of Singapore, Ong's predecessor Wee Kim Wee exercised, performed and discharged all the functions, powers and duties of an elected president as if he had been elected to the office of President by the citizens of Singapore.
SINGAPORE PRESIDENTS
Yusof Ishak (Appointed) Term of Office: 9 Aug 1965 - 23 Nov 1970
Benjamin Sheares (Appointed) Term of Office (3 Terms): 2 Jan 1971 - 12 May 1981
Devan Nair (Appointed) Term of Office: 23 Oct 1981 - 28 March 1985
Wee Kim Wee (Appointed) Term of Office: 2 Sep 1985 - 1 Sep 1993
Ong Teng Cheong (Elected) Term of Office: 1 Sept 1993 - 1 Sep 1999
S R Nathan (Elected Unopposed) Term of Office (2 Terms): 1 Sept 1999 - 1 Sep 2011
Tony Tan Keng Yam (Elected) Term of Office: 1 Sep 2011 - 31 Aug 2017
Halimah Yacob (Elected Unopposed) Term of Office: 14 Sep 2017 - 13 Sep 2023
Tharman Shanmugaratnam (Elected) Term of Office: 14 Sep 2023 - 13 Sep 2029
Cast your vote to .........
It looks like Ah Song is giving out many surprises. Firstly his & his GF's ages kena 4D 1st Prize. Now he has his own Ah Huat White Coffee. What's next???
Gimme Hope Halimah!
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Silent sit-in protest against PE2017
Singapore's 8th and first female President
No contest for Singapore Presidential Election 2017
President Tony Tan reflects on his six years at the Istana
PE2017: Mr Owl for President?
Presidential Election polling day will be on Sep 23
High Court dismissed Tan Cheng Bock's challenge on Elected Presidency
Presidential Election 2017: What makes a person Malay?
Silent sit-in protest against PE2017
Singapore's 8th and first female President
No contest for Singapore Presidential Election 2017
President Tony Tan reflects on his six years at the Istana
PE2017: Mr Owl for President?
Presidential Election polling day will be on Sep 23
High Court dismissed Tan Cheng Bock's challenge on Elected Presidency
Presidential Election 2017: What makes a person Malay?
2017 Presidential Election to be reserved for Malay candidates
Public Forum on Elected Presidency cancelled due to poor response
White Paper on Elected Presidency scheme
Spore push for minority President but not ready for non-Chinese PM
Changes to the Elected Presidency Scheme
Order of Succession And Baton Passing
